Cassie's Story

Chapter 1: The Accident

Cassie was born in hell, so she knew a few demons her own age, even ones who had died young. At the age of 14, Cassie was just having a good time with her parents, who had taken them all to dinner to celebrate helping Angel with his drag competition and yet again winning. As they laughed and shared stories over their meal, Cassie couldn't help but feel grateful for the unique bond she had with her parents. Their unwavering support and love had allowed her to embrace her true self and find joy in unexpected places. Little did she know, this memorable evening would become a cherished memory that strengthened their family's connection even further.

"It's a pity Angel couldn't join us again. Cass'' Lou broke the silence in the car by speaking. Cass nodded as she responded, "I know... but his boss needs him for something." Cass sighed, her thoughts drifting to her older brother, Angel, who had always been the life of their family gatherings. Despite his absence, Cass couldn't help but feel grateful for the strong bond they all shared, knowing that even when physically apart, their love and support remained unwavering. Although Angel Dust wasn't actually her brother by blood, Cass considered him family. They had grown up together in the same neighbourhood and had been through thick and thin. His flamboyant personality and caring nature had endeared him to everyone around him, making it easy for Cass to see him as a brother. She hoped that whatever his boss needed him for, it would be something important and worthwhile.

"Cassie, your design was amazing again!" Her dad, Xander, said as he drove along. Cass smiled, grateful for her father's praise. She had always valued his opinion, especially when it came to her artistic abilities. As they continued their drive, Cass couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment, knowing that her talent was recognised and appreciated by those closest to her.

As she looked at her book, she lit up with a shy smile. "Haha, I've got a lot more ideas about where that came from! Haha!" Cass's excitement bubbled over as she shared her plans for future projects with her dad. Xander listened intently, his own smile growing wider with each new idea she described. It was moments like these that made Cass even more determined to pursue her passion and continue pushing the boundaries of her artistic abilities.

" Xander smiled brightly at the thought but soon fell silent as he realised a few demons he had hidden from his family, unknown to Lou and Cass, had been involved with people he shouldn't have. As Cass finished speaking, Xander's smile faded slightly, his mind filled with the weight of his secret. He knew he had to find a way to break free from the dangerous path he had unknowingly wandered onto before it consumed him completely. Xandar hesitated before speaking. "I think we should take the scenic route this time." Lou and Cass exchanged confused glances, sensing the sudden shift in Xander's demeanour. Xander's suggestion of taking the scenic route was his subtle attempt to buy himself more time, hoping that the beauty of nature would provide a temporary escape from his troubled thoughts.

"Wait, what? But the restaurants are that way." Cassie spoke up. "Dad, are you sure you know where you're going?" Xander's eyes darted nervously as he struggled to come up with a convincing response. With a forced smile, he replied, "I just thought it would be nice to enjoy the scenery for a change, you know? We can always grab something to eat later." Lou and Cass exchanged concerned glances, sensing that there was more to Xander's sudden change of plans than meets the eye. "I promise... Things will be fine, Cass." Xandar stuttered. Cassie's brow furrowed as she pressed further. "But, Dad, we've never taken this route before. Are you sure we're going the right way?" Xander's grip tightened on the steering wheel as he tried to hide his uncertainty. "I've done my research, Cassie. Trust me, this is a shortcut that will save us time." However, his shaky voice betrayed his lack of confidence, leaving Cassie and Lou even more worried about what awaited them on this

Cassie knew her father was hiding something but didn't speak up. As they went further down the route, Casie asked once more. "Uh, dad, are you sure we're heading in the right direction?" Xander glanced at Cassie, his face filled with doubt. "I understand your concern, sweetheart," he replied, his voice tinged with unease. "But I've double-checked the map, and this is definitely the quickest way." Despite his attempt to reassure her, Cassie couldn't shake off the feeling that they were venturing into unknown territory. "Cassie, please do not worry; this is a quiet part of hell. Nothing will hurt us." Xander's words did little to ease Cassie's growing anxiety. She couldn't help but wonder what dangers might be lurking in this supposedly "quiet" part of hell. As they continued on their journey, Cassie's unease only intensified, causing her to keep a vigilant eye out for any signs of trouble.

"Angel might already be at the restaurant by the time we get there!"

For just a brief moment, Xander glanced at her before Lou screamed, "Watch the road!" Seeing the car swerve, Cassie squealed as it hit the walls hard and sent them careening into oncoming traffic. The screeching of tyres and the blaring of horns filled the air, further fueling Cassie's fear and confirming her worst suspicions about the dangers that awaited them in this seemingly peaceful part of hell. "daad! Whoa!" Cassie shouted, gripping onto the door handle tightly as the car spun out of control. Her heart raced as she realised that their delay might have cost them their chance to catch up with Angel at the restaurant.

"You're fine, we're going to..." Xandar began before Lou interrupted, speaking to her daughter with urgency in her voice. "I want you to get out of the car, Cassie!" Lou ordered Cassie's eyes widened in fear as she processed her mother's command. She knew that if her mother was telling her to leave the car, the situation must be dire. "what?! Not a chance! I won't leave you!" Cassie exclaimed, her voice filled with determination. She couldn't bear the thought of leaving her mother behind, especially in a dangerous situation. The two locked eyes, their unspoken bond and love for each other giving them the strength to face whatever was coming their way.

Cass attempted to undo her seatbelt, but it was stuck. "I can't get out!" Panic began to set in as Cassie struggled to free herself from the confines of the seatbelt. Desperation fueled her efforts as she frantically searched for any possible solution, knowing that time was running out. The next thing she knew, it was pitch black. As soon as Cass' parents could stop the crash, she heard sirens, then a crash before she was knocked unconscious, and it was too late. When Cass regained consciousness, she found herself surrounded by the wreckage of the car. The sound of sirens grew louder, indicating that help was on its way. She could only hope that they would arrive in time to save her and her parents.